MYSORE:
The hotel industry in Mysore is anticipating a high turnout for the Dasara celebrations. Major players in the hospitality industry here have declared a "sold out" during the festival period from October 4 to 13.

Star hotels in the city catering to corporates and foreign tourists were booked one year in advance for Dasara festivities, thanks to publicity and group bookings conducted by travel agents.

There is a growing perception that the hotel accommodation available in the city is inadequate to cope with the unprecedented rush of tourists for the 10-day cultural extravaganza.

From Europe

Lalitha Mahal Palace had inquiries from European countries soon after the celebrations concluded last year, and suites and rooms were booked for this year's event soon after. "Dasara is a big event that tourists look forward to, and our regular corporate clients time their visit to Mysore to coincide with the festival season. It is house full for the 10 days of the celebrations," Rahul Saxena, front office manager at the Lalitha Mahal Palace, said. The scenario is no different at other luxury and upmarket hotels preferred by international tourists. "The occupany rate is almost 100 per cent during the festival season," Gautam Banerjee of Kings Kourt Hotel said.

Leading hotels are booked during Dasara. Suma Roy, associate manager, Southern Star, said the hotel expects to register 100 per cent occupancy rate during the festival.

The city may not be able to provide accommodation to all tourists. Vivek Vinodh, general manager of Hotel Ramanashree, said: "There is a need for capacity building if Mysore is to live up to expectations."

The Tourism Department has launched its home-stay concept. A directory of home-stay facilities will be released next week.